Salamander The GREAT!
By Jack Hasling
Illustrated by Monica Albe
Reviewed by Maureen Musemeci

Every once in a while a charming and imaginative book comes along that is written for children but tickles the fancy of adults too.  I can't wait to read this book aloud to a child and show him or her the beautifully illustrated pages drawn by creative artist Monica Albe.   The delightful hero of writer Jack Hasling's story is "Salamander" a newt who dreams of becoming a great leader like Alexander the Great.  He is coached in greatness by Aristotle a philosophical frog possessing great wisdom who gives him a fabulous idea! He also meets a talkative catfish named Demosthenes who speaks the language of the fish in the pond and helps Sal implement his Great Idea!   This is a wonderful story with a delightful cadence that will enchant children for generations to come.